One of the other goals of the Breakthrough Prizes is “to celebrate their achievements and inspire the next generation of scientists.” I propose that much more is required than prize money, a televised gala of the stars (and scientists) and a program of lectures and symposiums to enable that vision. The funders of this prize have invested in and built technologies/businesses that have changed our everyday lives, including Google and Facebook. Could they help these (and other) scientists translate their discoveries in ways that are approachable to non-scientists AND enable spreading of those messages using the technologies/businesses?

What if these prizes were built (around existing resources) to explain the science and the potential impact of these breakthroughs? What if these technology barons could #breaktheinternet with science (scientists)?

Note: Scientists critiquing these prizes isn’t new. One I recalled from last year was GrrlScientist’s piece in The Guardian, which includes a discussion about rewarding individuals for what many of us consider a team endeavor.

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2 comments on “How Could Science #BreaktheInternet?”

Anytime you can suggest that we should search for the science equivalent of the Kardashian derriere, I say “Go for it!” And…although it may fall short of Kim’s attention grab, your suggestion would be a meaningful addition to the usual awards ceremony.